Celebrities, MPs and neurologists call for cannabis for MS review

Friday 29 June 2018

Leading neurologists have come together with nurses, MPs from all parties, and celebrities like explorer Ranulph Fiennes and actor Alun Armstrong, to send a message to Government: their review into medicinal cannabis must include MS.

Last week Home Secretary, Sajid Javid, announced the Government will hold a review into the use of medicinal cannabis. Today we’ve sent him an open letter, asking him to make sure it includes MS.

How far the debate on cannabis and MS has come

Genevieve Edwards, our Director of External Affairs, said: “The diversity of voices that have put their name to this letter shows just how far the political and public debate on cannabis for medicinal use has come. We welcome the Government’s upcoming review into this and we’re really excited about what it could mean for people with MS.

Cannabis for medicinal use could transform lives

This is what we sent:

Dear Secretary of State

Evidence shows that cannabis for medicinal use could help people with multiple sclerosis (MS) to manage pain and spasticity, when other treatments have not worked for them. It is estimated that 10,000 people with MS could benefit from cannabis for medicinal use.

Many people with MS could benefit from taking Sativex, a cannabis based medicine that helps manage spasticity. The medicine is however not widely available, with the exception of Wales, and is not available for pain. Many people with MS turn to illegal forms of cannabis as an alternative. It’s simply not right that some people are being driven to break the law to relieve their pain and spasticity. It’s also really risky when you’re not sure about the quality or dosage of what you’re buying.

We therefore welcome the UK Government’s decision to hold a review into cannabis for medicinal use and call on you to ensure evidence on MS and cannabis for medicinal use will be included in the review.